Jessica Fletcher, a mother from Fredericton, New Brunswick, has recently garnered widespread attention for her innovative method of communication with her 11-year-old son, Hunter, who has non-verbal autism. The unique approach involves a tattoo of a computer keyboard on her arm, which enables Hunter to express his thoughts using his finger to point at the keys.
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The idea for this unusual tattoo arose following a frustrating experience at a restaurant in May, when Hunter’s AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) device malfunctioned. In an effort to facilitate communication, Fletcher directed the wait staff to provide a pen and paper. Initially, Hunter struggled to articulate his needs, leading to frustration. However, his mother soon realised that he was attempting to create a keyboard layout to communicate what he wanted to eat, which he successfully used with her assistance.
The incident served as a catalyst for Fletcher’s decision to tattoo the keyboard design on her arm, thus providing Hunter with a tangible means to communicate whenever the AAC device is not available. After having the tattoo done, Hunter immediately made use of it, typing “mama” on his mother’s arm, an emotional moment that demonstrated the immediate efficacy of this new communication method.
The video documenting this interaction has since gone viral, amassing over 100 million views and 2.3 million likes on social media platforms. Following the success of the video, Jessica Fletcher partnered with Maritimer Clothing Company to launch a line of apparel featuring the keyboard design. This initiative aims to offer similar communicative support to other children with non-verbal autism, particularly when traditional AAC devices are not accessible.
Fletcher, who remains a stay-at-home mum, explained the importance of diversifying communication methods for non-speaking individuals. “Limiting non-speakers to just one means of communication can create barriers,” she stated, highlighting the necessity of having reliable alternatives, particularly given that technology can fail.
Hunter’s journey with communication began when he was diagnosed with non-verbal autism at the age of three. Initially transitioning to the AAC device in Year 1 of his schooling, he was hesitant and preferred the unique signs and gestures they had naturally developed at home. With his mother modelling the use of the device, he gradually became more comfortable with it.
Now, Hunter skillfully utilises both the AAC device and the tattooed keyboard to communicate, depending on the circumstances. Fletcher remarked on her son’s memorisation of the keyboard layout, allowing her to predict his messages after just a few letters. This newfound ability has opened doors for Hunter, empowering him to express himself in ways that surpass the confines of traditional communication barriers.
Despite the overwhelming positivity surrounding the tattoo and the clothing line, Fletcher has encountered some criticism online. Detractors have suggested alternatives like notepads or sign language, not fully understanding the physical difficulties that individuals with autism can face. “That’s rooted in ableism,” she noted, reminding her audience that many with autism experience motor skill challenges that complicate handwriting and signing.
This movement has transcended personal needs, resonating with broader communities. Fletcher has received interest from various professionals, including nurses and teachers who wish to equip themselves and their patients or students with the same communication tools. The collaborative clothing line not only generates profit for Fletcher and her family but also supports charitable contributions aimed at the disability community.
Fletcher’s experience has underscored the need for society to adopt a more inclusive perspective towards communication methods. “Non-speaking does not mean non-thinking,” she stressed, encouraging others to recognise the complexity of thoughts and emotions that those who are non-verbal may possess. By fostering diverse communication avenues, families can provide their children the opportunity to express their identities and feelings.
As Hunter continues to engage with both his AAC device and the tattooed keyboard, his mother reflects on the importance of such innovations in their journey. With every letter typed, they prove that effective communication can take many forms, significantly impacting mental health and emotional wellbeing by ensuring that every voice, no matter how quiet, can be heard.